Friday 17th June 2016

Revelation 2:17 NIVUKWhoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious… I will also give that person a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it.

I know a boy whose pockets were often full of stones that he’d seen and picked up – precious because of their shape, colour or nature. Here, those who remain faithful until the end will be given a white stone with a new name written on it. Scholars aren’t certain what this exactly represents. Does the stone represent a not guilty verdict in court? Could it be an admission ticket to the palace or an important event? Could it be a token with Jesus’ name on it conferring onto them his power and status (a bit like a back stage pass at a concert?) Whatever symbolism we opt for, the implication is clear – God gives us a new identity, a fresh start, a special status.

Help me to seek not to make a name for myself, but to serve and find my identity in you